A decomposition-based approach for the development of a supply chain strategy

This paper presents an application of the Axiomatic Design (AD) approach to supply chain management (SCM) for the development of a supply chain strategy. Following AD principles, we developed a method of supply chain design decomposition (SCDD) that distinguishes objectives and means of SCM. Because it systematically relates means to objectives at different levels of abstraction, higher-level objectives can be made actionable step-by-step. Using a structured procedure, the SCDD can be utilized to develop a supply chain strategy that is in alignment with corporate strategic goals and the context and the environment of the enterprise. A case study illustrates application of the methodology. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.